Wike Issues Another Warning, Vows To Step On Toes

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has vowed to step on toes as he sets out to work.

He also issued a stern warning to defaulters of ground rents in the territory, urging them to settle their outstanding liabilities promptly.

Wike emphasized that he would take decisive actions, including revoking plots, if the outstanding payments were not made within the grace period. He reiterated this during a meeting with the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chris Isiguzo, in Abuja.

Isiguzo expressed optimism about the transformative potential of Wike’s leadership in the FCT and sought the Minister’s support for various initiatives, including the establishment of a Media Village and the upcoming national media conference. The discussion also covered the administration’s efforts in enhancing security within the FCT.

Wike highlighted the successful establishment of a Joint Task Team to tackle crimes such as “one-chance” robberies, leading to improved security in the region. He emphasized the Renewed Hope agenda, a presidential initiative aimed at restoring hope to the people, and outlined ongoing activities in Abuja under this initiative. The Minister also discussed the administration’s focus on increasing Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to fund development projects.

Regarding ground rents, Wike clarified that his warnings were not mere bluster but a commitment to enforce the laws. He affirmed that governance sometimes required taking unpopular measures and assured that he and his colleague, the Minister of State, had the political will to enforce these laws effectively. The Minister stressed that the era of abandoned projects in the FCT was over, thanks to continuous funding facilitated by the President’s initiatives.